Shortly after Beane’s departure, Issaquah School District administrators began the search for her replacement. Parents filled out surveys online, indicating their preference for a principal who promoted transparency, collaboration and high standards, said an email district Superintendent Steve Rasmussen sent to parents on Wednesday.

“I believe we have found those qualities — in abundance — in Ms. Maier,” he wrote.

Maier has taught as an elementary school teacher for almost two decades, and has earned her principal credential.

This past year, she worked as dean of students at Wildwood Elementary School in Federal Way, with duties including creating professional development for teachers, taking care of student discipline and counseling.

Wildwood’s Principal Michael Swartz could not say enough good things about her.

“Sandra just has a wonderful way. She listens to kids,” he said. “Kids, parents, teachers and other staff member really trust her, believe in her. They know that she cares about them.

“Kids wants to do the right thing for her because they know her and respect her,” Swartz said. “Issaquah is getting a really good one.”

In Federal Way, Maier oversaw curriculum development and strategically analyzed data to help staff and students achieve more.

“Her current supervisor refers to her as his ‘co-principal,’ but, more importantly, as an incredible human being with an oversized heart for students,” Rasmussen wrote.

In Federal Way, Maier has overseen curriculum development and strategically analyzed data to support staff and students achieve more.

She has also worked with a wide diversity of students and trained staff how to meet those students’ needs.

When asked about her first priority for Maple Hills, she said, “One of the most important jobs of a principal is to establish meaningful and respectful relationships with all members of the school community,” Rasmussen reported in the email. “Building trust is my primary goal.”